Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Thanksgiving for Those in Need

Thanks to the generosity of a leading Chicago businessman and friend, and the altruism of local businesses, I am truly grateful to help offer a Thanksgiving Dinner for those in need.

Tapas Valencia, 1530 S. State St., will open its doors to the needy on Thanksgiving Day at 1 p.m. Guests will enjoy a free Thanksgiving meal. Reservations are required and seating is limited.

If you and your family are in need or if you know neighbors who are in need, then please contact Beth O'Mara in my office at (312) 263-9273. Please provide enough information to her so that she can reach the people you are referring.

Adopt-a-Family:Neighbors Helping Neighbors

In partnership with the West Loop Community Organization, we are starting a new tradition in the 2nd Ward. We have reached out to pastors and community leaders to identify families in the 2nd Ward who don't have the resources to have a very good holiday.

Each family member has listed some "wishes" for much-needed gifts that would make their Christmas brighter. We encourage more 2nd Ward residents and businesses to "adopt-a-family" and donate to effort.

Each family is different, and many of the requests are simple; toys, household items, and winter clothes.

We will provide you with more information about a family that is needed and available for adoption in this effort. Of course, if you know a family who is struggling this season, please let Beth know, so we can get them involved with this program. We are hoping to give each family their presents during the week of December 19.

Together, we can help those less fortunate in the 2nd Ward. After all, this is truly the spirit of community and the holidays.

Tapas Valencia is a class act to reach out to the community like that. I've also done the Adopt a Family program (although not through the city), honestly one of the most fulfilling things I have ever done.